Mornings seem to be when the challenges of pregnancy become most difficult. While the nagging pain of morning sickness is well-known and understood, pregnant women with diabetes face an additional a.m. challenge: increased glucose intolerance.

Studies have shown that during pregnancy, changes in hormone levels make it more difficult for women's bodies to stabilize blood glucose levels in the early hours of the day. As a result, diabetes experts recommend that women modify their morning nutrition regimen during pregnancy. Limiting carbohydrates early in the morning and adding protein to the morning meal can help manage decreased glucose tolerance.